Treating endocarditis

Endocarditis is treated with a course of antibiotics given via a drip. You'll need to be admitted to hospital for this.

Around one in five people also need surgery to repair or replace a damaged heart valve or drain away any abscesses that develop.

Endocarditis is a serious illness, especially if complications develop. Even with the highest standard of medical care the risk of dying is around one in five. Early diagnosis and treatment is vital to improve the outlook for the condition.

Who's affected?

Endocarditis is a rare condition in England, even in those with a higher risk. Infective endocarditis is estimated to affect around one in every 30,000 people every year.

Endocarditis is more common in older people, with half of all cases developing in people aged over 50. However, cases of endocarditis have been recorded in children, particularly those born with congenital heart disease. Twice as many men are affected as women.

Although it may sound strange, rates of endocarditis are increasing because of advances in medical care. This is due to an increasing number of people being treated with valve replacement surgery or surgery to repair congenital heart disease.